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Flystrike Alert In Rabbits

Flystrike! Is your rabbit at risk?!

Rabbits are said to have ‘flystrike’ (myiasis) when certain types of flies (bluebottles and greenbottles) lay eggs on them which hatch into maggots. These maggots mature very rapidly and can begin eating into the rabbit’s living flesh within 24 hours. This is as horrific as it sounds, and is often fatal.

Flystrike is a problem most commonly affecting rabbits and sheep, although other species can suffer sporadically. We see most cases during warmer weather, but the season for blowflies does stretch from April to October . I have already had to deal with one severely flystruck rabbit this summer, and sadly we will probably see more.

Any rabbit can get flystrike, but as the flies lay their eggs in wet or soiled fur, bunnies with the following problems are especially at risk :-
Overweight or obese
Dental problems
Runny eyes
Large dewlaps (females)
Skin folds around tummy or bottom
Elderly rabbits
Diarrhoea/loose stools
Unsanitary housing

If you discover your rabbit has flystrike, keep calm but telephone us immediately—it is a true emergency and treatment cannot wait. Flyblown rabbits are usually in pain and severe shock, although they are experts at hiding this from the untrained eye. With prompt,  skilled veterinary and nursing care many rabbits can make a full recovery, although advanced cases do sometimes need to be euthanased.

Early detection and prevention are the key to successful control of this disease. Rabbits sometimes fall into the category of children’s pet which gets a quick check once daily between busy family routines. Sadly this is not enough to pick up flystrike early. During the summer months it really is essential to pick all bunnies up daily and check their rear ends for fly eggs or maggots, or wet/dirty patches which could indicate flystrike. Rabbits who fall into the ‘at risk’ categories may need to be checked twice daily, and can be given a preventative treatment.

There are various other measures you can take to help prevent flystrike, including addressing the other health issues which increase risk. Do take advantage of our free clinics during July and find out how to give you bunny the best possible care. Our trained nurses will advise on all aspects of bunnycare, and can apply preventative treatment for you if appropriate. Why not bring the children along to learn how to care for their pets?

Nicky Lumley
Toft Lodge Veterinary Centre

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